To put it in terms he himself would not use, reading isLeVar Burton’s brand.
To talk to him about reading is, in many ways, to talk to him about himself.
So perhaps the most surprising thing about his new book club is that it hasn’t existed until now.
LeVar Burton reads. It’s what he does.Michael Tullberg/Getty Images
“I know I have demonstrated over time that my attitude towards literature is ecumenical,” he says.
It’s nothing more than a starting point that reflects who I am."
It seems like such a no-brainer.
LeVar Burton on ‘Reading Rainbow.'.PBS
LEVAR BURTON:You’re right, and the obviousness of it hadn’t escaped me.
[Laughs] I was just looking for the right platform.
As it turns out, we have discovered that reading is good for us.
Vintage; Grand Central Publishing; Scribner
[Laughs] And the proof that communal reading is successful had always been there.
The new thing is the vessel that they have created for that community.
You’ve been an advocate for reading and literacy for such a long time.
Where did that passion for reading come from?
I feel like I come by this passion honestly.
My mother was an English teacher.
Why did you choose these particular books as the first three selections for your book club?
She represents an opening up and a new era in speculative literature.
And then, one of Baldwin’s early books isThe Fire Next Time.
By its very title,The Fire This Timeis an answer to that idea.
Do you have any idea which books you’ll be choosing next?
Oh, why would I reveal those?
[Laughs] Nice try.
What would you say you’re ultimately trying to achieve with this book club?
I couldn’t ask for anything more.
This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
